Why Choose St Mary's School?

Why Choose St Mary's School?

Your choice of school allows your child to achieve their personal best and sets them up for future success.

Independent School in Henley on Thames

The early years in your child’s school journey are critical to their future. At St. Mary’s we pride ourselves on offering our pupils the very best start in life. Our specialist teachers are able to provide an all-round education of the highest quality that challenges and engages children from 3 – 11 years old. Recognising and celebrating each child so they become happy, confident and independent individuals is central to our ethos and this is underpinned by our strong community and family values.

There are a number of compelling reasons to choose St. Mary’s for your child. Here are just a few:

Specialist teachers

One of our core principles is to instil a love of learning for life in all of our pupils. We introduce specialist teachers to the children from their days in Nursery to help us achieve this vision. Passionate and innovative teachers inspire children and help to make the most of every learning opportunity.

Academic success

Results from our yearly progress tests consistently exceed the national average in all subjects. The average standardised score for our children at the end of year 6 (including our children with SEN) was at least 15 points higher than the national average of 100:

115 in Maths and English

117 in Science

119 in Reading tests

‘More able and talented’ pupils at St. Mary’s are provided with enriched and extended opportunities across the curriculum to develop their abilities. Activities for MAT pupils currently include involvement in the United Kingdom Mathematical Trust Challenge and a coding and animation contest led by the University of Manchester.

Outstanding results ensure our children consistently receive offers from some of the most prestigious schools in the area, including the offer of scholarships. We are uniquely placed to advise you on the best destinations for your child, based on their academic ability, strengths and character.

Culture

Our culture of respect means we are a successful, thriving and happy school. Every day in our school, we learn about making good friends, sensible choices, staying safe, manners and table manners.

Our latest SIS Inspection Report (2014) stated: “The school day is notable for the absence of raised voices and this reflects the positive relationships between pupils and staff, and pupils and each other.”

Facilities

An outdoor playground and sports space, a specialist science laboratory, a dedicated music room, a vibrant art room and a colourful library are among the onsite facilities we have at St Mary’s – each designed to foster a stimulating learning environment for our pupils.

Off site facilities provide our pupils with additional exciting learning environments. From sports grounds, to swimming pools and even an outdoor class room complete with a fire pit. Our position in the heart of Henley on Thames means that these facilities are all just a short walk or minibus journey away.

Building character

At St. Mary’s we pride ourselves on developing more than a child’s academic ability. Our regular outdoor learning and residential trips (years 3-6) help children develop resilience, courage and respect. These essential skills ensure that children are prepared for life after St. Mary’s and indeed stay with them for life.

After school care / clubs

We understand family life is very busy. Tea Club, our after school care, offers a safe, relaxed environment for children after the school day. Tea Club runs each day from 3.30pm-5.30pm and can be booked in advance, or on the day if your schedule changes at the last minute. There is also a wide variety of extra-curricular activities available through our after school clubs, ranging from fencing, to dance and football, to name just a few.